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How does Huperzine A work?

Huperzine A is thought to be beneficial for problems with memory, loss of mental abilities (dementia), and the muscular disorder myasthenia gravis because it causes an increase in the levels of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is one of the chemicals that our nerves use to communicate in the brain, muscles, and other areas.

Are there safety concerns?

Huperzine A seems to be safe when used for a short time, such as less than one month. It can cause some side effects including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, blurred vision, slurred speech, restlessness, loss of appetite (anorexia), contraction and twitching of muscle fibers (fasciculations), cramping, increased saliva and urine, inability to control urination (incontinence), high blood pressure, and slowed heart rate (bradycardia).

Do not use huperzine A if:

You are pregnant or breast-feeding.

You have a heart condition.

You have a seizure disorder called epilepsy.

You have a blockage, or "obstruction," in your digestive tract.

You have a stomach or intestinal ulcer.

You have a lung condition such as asthma or chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD).